Mad rush for NHIS biometric cards in Winneba

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Winneba, May 12, GNA – The mad rush by most holders of National Health Insurance cards of the Effutu-Awutu-Senya Health Insurance Scheme for biometric, has created congestion, and has mounted tension at the premises of the scheme in Winneba.

The situation compelled a policeman on duty at the place to spray pepper in the air at the front of the offices, to disperse a large crowd of people who attempted to force their way to the offices of the scheme on Friday, May 9.

The Scheme Manager, Mr Jossier Doama Kittoe, made this known to the Ghana News Agency in a telephone interview in Winneba.

He said a woman affected by the pepper was treated and discharged at a near-by clinic.

Mr Kittoe appealed to those whose cards have not expired, not to rush for the biometric one currently being issued instantly to people re-newing their membership.

According to him the rush for the biometric cards was affecting the smooth operation of the exercise, adding that most clients came with reports that their old cards were missing and therefore needed replacement,

He said workers of the scheme come to work at 0630 hours and close at 22.00 hours without any overtime allowance just to enable them serve more people.

The Scheme Manager said people queue in front of their offices with their children as early as 0300 hours, a situation he described as not the best.

He explained that the exercise was on-going, and urged those whose cards will expire after August this year, not to besiege the offices to renew them.

Mr Kittoe said Fridays have been set aside for clients outside the Effutu Municipality, and therefore advised people in Winneba to stay at home on such days.